Bumpe–Gao Chiefdom

Bumpe–Gao Chiefdom, also known as Bumpeh ngawo or Bumpe ngao is a chiefdom in Bo District of Sierra Leone. Its capital is Bumpe.

Climate
The climate is that of a Monsoon The average temperature is 22 °C. The hottest month is April, at24 °C, and the coldest is July, at 20 °C. The average rainfall is 2,971 millimeters per year. The wettest month is September, with 543 millimeters of rain, and the driest is January, with 8 millimeters.

Ethnic makeup and culture
This chiefdom is inhabited by different ethnic groups,which are the Temnes, Mendes and the Sherbros. Residents trace their origin to a warrior named Bandabla Jei, a successful hunter and fisherman, who came from the east with a hunting party and established himself as a local leader. Jei later left as other stronger invaders won against him and took over the chiefdom. He is said to have left in a canoe down the river.

Ruling families
The chiefdom is ruled by five recognized ruling families.

Gbekpa/Barka
This house traces the lineage of Barka, one of the many sons of Gbekpa.All other houses trace their legitimacy to connections with this house. Its headquarters is at Bumpe.

Kposowa family
The great grandfather of the Kposowa family was an advisor to Gbekpa, and given legitimacy because of his service. The current chief is from this family, and makes his headquarters in Bumpe.

Jongo
This house traces the lineage of a cousin to Barka, and also has its headquarters in Bumpe.

Kpandoma
The great grandfather of this line was cousin to the Barka, and they also have their headquarters in Bumpeh.

Makavoray
This family is also related to Barka, and has its headquarter at Serabu.